Jig Pheasant Tail Nymph

When to use

The universal Euro nymph: pheasant tail says 'olive nymph' to every river trout, and the slotted tungsten bead on a jig hook gets it to them point-up through the rocks. The everyday pairing is 2.5–3.0 mm at 14–16; go 2.0 mm at 16–18 for skinny summer water. Fish it on the point with a smaller dropper above, lob-cast upstream, led at the current's pace under the sighter — and strike the lift at the drift's end. Carry it in at least two bead weights; depth, not pattern, is the first change.

Imitates

Olive and general upwing nymphs — Sawyer's universal imitation on the modern point-up Euro chassis.

Team position

Point (anchor) or dropper on a Euro leader; the default first fly.

Best methods

Dressing

Pairs with